Ample snow and one record low

Winter weather

Posted: Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Joe Gammjoe.gamm@amarillo.com

Monday night's snowfall didn't measure up to previous Texas Panhandle storms, but it was enough to cause flight cancellations, school delays and other problems. And at least one record was set for cold temperature.

Meteorologists with the National Weather Service in Amarillo said snow accumulations were heaviest around Amarillo.

Four inches blanketed the city, while Canyon got 3 inches and Dalhart received 2.

Dalhart also set a record Tuesday with a low temperature of 3 degrees. The previous Feb. 23 record of 4 degrees was set in 1960.

Severe cold overnight left roads icy, and highways around Amarillo were treacherous because of slippery conditions.

Multiple rollover accidents were reported, two within a few hundred feet of each other on U.S. Highway 287, between Cherry and Mobely avenues.

Paul Braun, Texas Department of Transportation spokesman, said many accidents could have been avoided if drivers had slowed and left extra stopping room between their vehicle and the one in front.

Several flights from Amarillo into Dallas scheduled for early Tuesday were canceled because of snowy weather at their destination, officials said.

Airport officials said the airlines found different flights for travelers to ensure they reached their destinations.

As temperatures warmed throughout the day, the snow quickly melted off. By contrast, bitter cold temperatures followed previous storms this winter, causing the snow to stick around.

NWS meteorologists forecast highs in mid- to upper 40s for the next couple of days. A 25 percent chance of light rain or snow is forecast for late Thursday evening. Friday, temperatures might reach the low 50s.

But another weather system reaching the Panhandle between Saturday night and Monday morning brings a 30 percent to 40 percent chance of snow during that period.